860H.01/12–1344: Telegram
The United States Political Adviser on the Staff of the Supreme Allied Commander, Mediterranean Theater (Kirk), to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:25 p.m.]
1725. Reference my 1170, November 5.8 Churchill has received message from Maclean stating that in his opinion the best chance British have of consolidating their position in Yugoslavia is by trying to help Tito build up an air force and if this is to be done it is essential that work be begun immediately.
Regarding proposal which was put forward over a month ago that British should look after Yugoslavian Navy and Air Force and Russians take care of Army no progress towards implementation thereof seems to have been made.
Maclean stated that hundreds of Yugoslavian pilots are being trained by Russians and a considerable force of aircraft have been placed under command of Tito. These are apparently being flown by Russian pilots but will be handed over to Yugoslavia pilots as soon [Page 1435] as possible. Therefore unless British take out their claim before long Tito will have acquired an air force independently of the British.
In Maclean’s opinion it is extremely urgent that an early agreement be reached with Russians and Americans and a firm offer of equipment and training facilities be given to Tito as soon as possible. Otherwise the Russians will undoubtedly get the contract and all it implies.
- Not printed.↩